MTI Statement of Condolence and Call for Justice

January 20, 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MTI Statement of Condolence and Call for Justice

Mi’gmawe’l Tplu’taqnn Inc. (MTI) extends our deepest condolences to the family, loved ones, and community of Bronson Paul of Neqotkuk First Nation. We hold his family, especially the children and those closest to him, in our thoughts during this time of profound grief.

This loss is devastating and comes as First Nations across our territory continues to mourn Indigenous people killed in police-involved incidents. These are not isolated events. They reflect ongoing systemic racism within the justice system and a failure to adequately protect Indigenous lives.

Most recently, on January 13, 2026, the Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) was notified of a shooting involving the RCMP on Sipekne’katik First Nation that resulted in the death of a man.

As First Nations leadership have repeatedly stated, these incidents form a troubling pattern. A disproportionate number of police-involved deaths have involved Indigenous people, pointing to systemic racism within policing and the broader justice system. Despite years of advocacy from First Nations leaders, the conditions that put Indigenous people at greater risk have not been meaningfully addressed.

The work of the Commissioner on Systemic Racism did not go far enough to address these issues. The recommendations failed to bring the deep changes needed, leaving Indigenous communities to continue living with the consequences.

MTI supports the calls from First Nations leadership for transparent and independent investigations, Indigenous involvement in oversight and decision-making, and concrete reforms that protect the safety and rights of Indigenous peoples. Justice must lead to real change, not just promises.

We stand with the Wolastoqey Nation, the Neqotkuk community, Sipekne’katik First Nation and all those who are grieving. We will continue to support First Nations leadership in calling for accountability and lasting systemic change.

Raven Boyer - ravenboyer@migmawel.org